The Luminosa String Orchestra begins its 2026 concert series – DRAÍOCHT – The Alchemy of Music with a major artistic collaboration…
The Four Seasons takes centre stage this May as Patrick Rafter joins forces with Luminosa Orchestra for a night of brilliance, passion and electrifying virtuosity.

At the heart of the evening lies Antonio Vivaldi’s epic – ‘Four Seasons’ — one of the most iconic works ever written for violin. Bursting with colour, drama and breathtaking energy, these concertos remain as thrilling today as they were 300 years ago.

The fireworks continue with Camille Saint-Saëns’ Introduction et Rondo Capriccioso — a dazzling showpiece of flair, virtuosity and irresistible rhythmic fire.

Closing the concert is Edward Elgar’s Serenade for Strings, one of the most cherished works in the English repertoire — warm, noble and deeply lyrical.

​Patrick Rafter is recognised and celebrated as one of Ireland’s foremost classical musicians, acclaimed for his mastery of the violin and extraordinary musicianship. A protege of the legendary violinist, Maxim Vengerov, Rafter has taken to the stage as a soloist, director, conductor, and recitalist across the world. He has collaborated with the foremost masters in today’s musical landscape, sharing the stage as a soloist with iconic performers such as the aforementioned Maxim Vengerov, Schlomo Mintz, Barry Douglas, and John O’Conor.​

Luminosa’s performances are compelling, powerful and heart-rending. Their musicians are highly skilled and equally seasoned classical, romantic or early music practitioners and delight in playing a wide variety of music on modern instruments. Led by Paul Ezergailis, concertmaster of the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra; the orchestra’s section leaders comprise the members of the renowned ConTempo quartet, and also featuring many noteworthy string players on the Irish stage.

When you come and see this new collaboration you will witness a passionate manifestation of live music making by world-class musicians We are proud to be based in Galway and equally proud to be visiting Kilkenny on May 8th.